It's All In The Playing

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • In this intimate and compelling memoir, lauded actress Shirley MacLaine casts herself in her most challenging role yet—as seeker of personal and metaphysical truth.
 
“It began in Peru ten years ago and ended in Peru ten years later. But the steps along the way were the real story.”

In filming the miniseries Out on a Limb, Oscar-winning actress, social activist, and singular entertainer Shirley MacLaine was forced to recreate herself ten years earlier. To journey back from Malibu to London, from Sweden to the mysterious landscape of Peru . . . to the places, the perceptions, and profound emotions she experienced then. And to journey beyond, exploring new personal and cosmic dimensions, the choices of her lifetimes, who she was and who she would become. 
 
At the heart of It’s All in the Playing is a compelling challenge: We choose our own destinies, create our illusions. We have the power to design the world in which we live, and the strength to remake ourselves in the image of our dreams.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs